How to Save Money on Energy Costs in your Apartment

Posted on Feb 11, 2009 by Whistlebury Properties

Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Right now is a perfect time to save on your energy costs. The weather is changing and you should take advantage of the mild temperatures. There is a method to the transition, and you shouldn’t mindlessly cut off your heat and flip on the A/C.

No matter where you live, you should not have the heat pumping one day only to switch the air conditioning on the next. Check out your thermostat settings and work to keep one temperature setting through the day and night. If your area is mild enough, turn off the air altogether for the next few months and use your ceiling fans and open windows. You’ll be surprised how much money you’ll save! Take advantage of the nice outdoor temperatures and the extra cash.

Here are a few tips to prepare for the changing weather:

Do not underestimate the power of fans, especially ceiling fans and oscillating fans, that help circulate the air but use much less energy than AC.

Block out the sun with blinds, shades and thick curtains. Use white curtains to reflect the sun away from the house.

Close the curtains before you leave for work in the morning to block out the afternoon sun that warms certain rooms in your home while you’re away.

Use cooler colors and fabrics in the summer. Pull out the light blue pillows or blanket. Put away your flannel sheets and the dark wool blankets. Cooler colors and fabrics can make you feel cooler and you may be pleasantly surprised when you actually notice a difference.

When it’s time for the AC:

Increase the temperature on your AC thermostat when you are out and when you are sleeping.

Use a ceiling fan and the AC simultaneously and try turning the AC up several degrees. For every degree you raise your home thermostat, you will cut two percent off your cooling costs.

Avoid putting electronics and lamps near your thermostat; it can sense heat through appliances and will sense that your home is warmer than it really is, causing the AC to work harder than necessary.

Shut off vents in unused rooms and closets (and then shut those doors) so you don’t spend money cooling or heating rooms you’re not occupying.

Move furniture that blocks air vents. If you can’t move it to a different place in the room, at least move it a few inches from the wall.

More tips:

Use energy-saving compact florescent light bulbs; they may cost a few bucks more at first, but they will last much, much longer and give off much less heat.

Don’t ignore leaky faucets; ask us to fix them immediately.

Wash only full loads of dishes or clothes.

***Tips courtesy of U.S. Department of Energy

How to avoid arguments with roommates over thermostat settings:

Discuss expectations and come to an agreement about where the temperatures should be during each season. Moving the temperature up and down will use a lot of energy as the air has to run constantly to keep up.

If one roommate handles the bills, make sure he/she educates all the roommates on how they break down. If everyone can see the money savings then all roommates are more likely to be vigilant about the energy savings.

If a roommate persists that they want the air cooler or the heat warmer than you think is reasonable politely ask them to pay a higher percentage of the energy bill.

Have you ever wondered “How much does it cost to leave your TV on all day? What about turning your air conditioning 1 degree cooler? Which uses more power every month — your fridge or your dishwasher? Is your household more or less energy efficient than similar homes in your neighborhood?”

Soon you can find out with Google’s PowerMeter. I personally can’t wait until this application is available.

What ways do you save energy and money in your apartment? Do your roommates agree on these methods?

**Photo Credit: RichieC

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